Materials
What You Need to Get Started
Hardware Options – Laptop or Tablet
You will need a device that supports digital drawing. Choose the option that best suits your budget and workflow:
Primary Software – Clip Studio Paint
All core demonstrations and class activities will use Clip Studio Paint (CSP). Using the same program makes it much easier to follow along and receive direct feedback.
License Options
- 3-month Free Trial → Start Free Trial
- Perpetual License – $89 (one-time) for Windows / Mac / Android / iPad
- Monthly Subscription – $4.49 per month
- Purchase here → Clip Studio Paint Store
Important: Please install Clip Studio Paint before the first class if possible. If you are already comfortable with another professional program (Procreate, Photoshop, Krita, etc.), you are welcome to use it.
Optional Software – GIMP
Later in the course we will use GIMP for non-destructive editing, adding professional effects, and preparing files for print or web.
Course Description
This hands-on course designed for all aspiring artists looking to develop the essential skills in working in the modern digital creative age.
Build essential job-ready skills through;
- Mastering drawing tablets (e.g., Wacom) for intuitive sketching and illustration, while exploring powerful software tools like
- Clip Studio Paint (CSP) for dynamic comics and animation,
- GIMP for professional photo editing and enhancements, and
- Canva/Figma for stunning graphic designs and layouts.
Refine your digital art techniques, investigate cutting-edge technologies, and produce innovative images and video art that stand out—perfect for boosting your portfolio, advancing creative growth, and preparing for professional opportunities in illustration, design, and content creation. Enrol now at Sydney Art School and elevate your artistic journey!
Units of Competency
Certificate and Diploma students may use work produced in this course in support of the listed Australian Qualifications Framework Units of Competency.
General Artistic Skills students may request to be assessed against these units and be issued a Statement of Attainment. Assessment fees apply.
| Unit of Competency Code & Name | Unit is Elective in … | Comment |
| CUADIG518 Refine digital art techniques | Diploma of Visual Arts | Essential Unit for Digital Art Specialisation |
| CUADIG519 Investigate technologies for the creation of digital art | Advanced Diploma of Visual Arts Diploma of Visual Arts |
Essential Unit for Digital Art Specialisation |
| CUADIG401 Author interactive media | Certificate IV in Visual Arts | |
| CUADIG412 Design user interfaces | Certificate IV in Visual Arts | |
| CUADIG413 Create user interfaces | Certificate IV in Visual Arts | |
| CUADIG415 Produce innovative digital images | Certificate IV in Visual Arts | |
| CUADIG416 Produce innovative video art | Certificate IV in Visual Arts | |
| CUADIG303 Produce and prepare photo images | Certificate III in Visual Arts | |
| CUADIG304 Create visual design components | Certificate III in Visual Arts | |
| CUADIG315 Produce digital images | Certificate III in Visual Arts | |
| CUADIG316 Produce video art | Certificate III in Visual Arts |